Enhancing Golf through Olympics

Golf has had developmental challenges attributed to various reasons. However, a number of measures that have been introduced have mitigated the encounters. For instance, the inclusion of golf as one of the disciplines in the quadrennial Olympic Games which though is still eliciting mixed reactions.

At a media briefing prior to the British Open, Rory McIlroy, an Irish professional golfer said that he was interested in only playing to win championships and majors but not getting other people into the game. A motive for giving the Olympics a wide berth that has generated an unwarranted debate.

Day six of the competitions marks an important day for golfers as the men will be kicking off the game at the Olympic Golf Course. Though many of the PGA Tour top brass will be missing, there is optimism that new spectators will be able to watch the game. It is expected that this will stimulate the youth especially in places where the Olympics commands a lot of respect.

Henrik Stenson, a Swedish golfer, currently participating in the Rio De Janeiro games, believes that Olympics has already boosted the game and predicts that it will further contribute to its growth. He has observed that some countries have already been endeared to golf to the extent that golf federations and funds have been put up to support this cause. The games being televised all over the globe, provides a perfect opportunity of motivating the upcoming golfers.

Peter Dawson, the president of the International Golf Federation, shares the same view. He has overseen golf federations increase since the recent introduction of the sport in Olympics. Those who lobbied this move say that the major aim was to promote the sport in nations where golf is underdeveloped. It is their expectation that the exposure due to the popularity of Olympics will not only inspire sportsmen in these countries but will spur growth especially in a scenario where one of their own bags an Olympic medal.

This article is published in: News
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